The Importance of Safety in Construction Zones
Road construction is not just a nuisance for drivers that can slow down traffic to a crawl and make everyone late. Construction zones can be extremely dangerous for road construction workers and motorists alike. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 720 people were killed, and 40,000 more were injured, in construction areas in 2008. In addition, the National Safety Council reports that 100 construction workers are killed on the job each year.
One of the common reasons for these construction zone accidents include drivers being distracted by changing the radio station, talking on a cell phone or by the watching the construction itself instead of paying attention to the road. Also, many accidents are caused by road construction debris - such as automobile parts, construction materials and other waste. Annually, debris is responsible for over 25,000 accidents that occur in construction zones, as well as 80 fatalities.
Being Safe in Construction Zones
In order to stay safe in construction zones, motorists should:
- Follow directions. Regulatory signs, barriers and road crew flaggers are in construction zones to tell drivers what to do when they drive through these areas. Motorists should always take heed of these directions because failing to do so may result in an accident, as well as a citation.
- Pay attention. Although the traffic may be slower than usual in a construction zone, that doesn't mean you don't have to watch the road. This is not the time to start texting, talking on a cell phone or engaging in other forms of distracted driving.
- Drive carefully. Be sure to follow the posted speed limit, keep up with the flow of traffic and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Plan ahead. If you know there is going to be road construction on your route, be sure to find out what is going on and plan accordingly.
In the event that a motor vehicle accident does occur in a construction zone, speak to a personal injury attorney to discuss the circumstances of the accident. An attorney can explain your options and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
